2021 Audi e-tron Steering Column Adjustment Not Working

Symptoms of the Audi e-tron Steering Column Fault

Owners of affected 2021 Audi e-tron vehicles may notice that the electric steering column adjustment is not working in the vertical direction. This means the steering wheel cannot be moved up or down using the electric controls, indicating a potential Audi e-tron steering column fault.

Fault Codes (DTCs)

If you experience the Audi e-tron steering column fault, a diagnostic scan may reveal the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) stored in the electronic central control module (BCM 1), J519 (address word 0009):

Code	Description	Module	Symptom Code
B14BF01	Steering column vertical adjustment motor electrical error	BCM 1 (J519)	66145

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

A technician will first verify the customer's complaint that the electric steering column adjustment is not working. If the issue is reproducible, they will then check for the presence of DTC B14BF01 in the vehicle's diagnostic system. The underlying cause for this Audi e-tron steering column fault is typically outdated software.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the electric steering column adjustment not working involves a software update and a recalibration process.

1. Software Update: The steering column control module (J866) must be updated using the Software Version Management (SVM) system. This requires following the instructions in TSB 2011732. The specific SVM action code for the update is 649S001 for A6 and A7 models, and generally involves updating to New Software Version 0210 or higher. The relevant software part numbers are 80A907705A and 80A907705.

   The following table outlines the software versions:

   Model	Old Software Part Number	Old Software Version	New Software Part Number	New Software Version	SVM Code Input
   Audi e-tron quattro, Audi e-tron Sportback	80A907705A, 80A907705	0200, 0100	80A907705A	0210
   A8	80A907705A, 80A907705	0200, 0100, 0080	80A907705A	0210
   A6, A7	80A907705A, 80A907705	0200, 0100	80A907705A	0210	649S001
   Q7, Q8	80A907705A, 80A907705	0200, 0100, 0080, 0070	80A907705A	0210
   Q5	80A907705A, 80A907705	0200, 0100, 0080	80A907705A	0210

2. Steering Column Recalibration: After the software update, the electric steering column adjustment function must be restored and cleared.

   • A technician will apply an upward force of approximately 88 lbs (40 kg) to the steering wheel using their knees while simultaneously pressing the steering column adjustment switch upwards. This initial step helps restore basic function.
   • To fully clear the adjustment unit, a specialized tool kit (T10230) weighing about 20 lbs (9 kg) is required. This tool kit is attached to the steering wheel with a strap, ensuring the steering wheel is protected with a cleaning cloth and the seat with plastic foil.
   • The steering column is then moved all the way up and down up to 50 times while the weight of the tool kit creates a current in the adjustment motor, effectively clearing the unit.

Important Warnings

• Tool Kit T10230: If the specific tool kit T10230 is not available in the workshop, technicians are advised to use a similar weight toolbox to achieve the necessary 20 lbs (9 kg) for the recalibration procedure.

Required Tools or Parts

The primary specialized tool required for this repair is:

• T10230: Assembly tool (used to simulate the necessary weight for recalibration).

Warranty Information

This repair is generally covered under warranty for up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, it falls under claim type G10, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle is outside of these warranty parameters, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only. The service number for this procedure is 4823, with a damage code of 0040. Labor operations include "Software Update (includes checking for DTCs)" (0151 0000) and "Check and adjust steering column" (4823 0599).

Owner Action

If you are experiencing the electric steering column adjustment not working in your 2021 Audi e-tron, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized Audi service center. They will be able to diagnose the issue, perform the necessary software update, and complete the recalibration procedure to resolve the Audi e-tron steering column fault.

---

Source: NHTSA ID 10187580